Unlike the fashion at the often staid and formal acting award shows, the red carpet wear at the Grammys is supposed to be a little more colorful. This year? Not so much. It seemed like most of the celebrities showed up to Sunday night's awards in somber black, and the ones who didn't chose neutrals, silver or white.

Then again, you also expect Grammy fashion to be a little more daring, and in that respect, certain artists -- think Lady Gaga (of course) and Ciara -- definitely went out on a limb.

Click through to read more about the red carpet fashion at the 52nd annual Grammy Awards and to see what Beyonce, Ciara, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige and more were wearing.


From the neck up, the Ciara looks beautiful, with soft understated makeup and a low ponytail. From the neck down, we're not sure what's happening. Does this lace Givenchy jumpsuit look kind of like really expensive pajamas?
Grammy winner India.Arie sparkled in this simple gown, but she could have done without the purse strap across her body. Aren't there assistants for that?
This futuristic black (recognizing the theme?) dress showed off Jennifer Hudson's long legs and ever-strinking waist. And she threw in a little cleavage for good measure. With the bangs, high ponytail and sky-high platform pumps, it was a good look for the new mom. This Miss America pageant was Saturday night (congrats Miss Virginia!), and although Melanie Fiona looks lovely, she she looks like she'd fit in more with that crowd in this ball gown than with her fellow artists at the Grammys.

Ledisi scores points for rocking the one-shoulder trend and showing some sassy leg on the red carpet.

Multiple Grammy nominee and winner Beyonce didn't wear what we predicted, but her form-fitting, low-cut Stephane Rolland with piping details fits her style perfectly.

Like Beyonce, Keri Hilson nixed black in favor of nude. She looks amazing in this Dolce & Gabbana mermaid dress. Rihanna looks ethereal in white, but we're not convinced this was the perfect style of dress for the singer. What do you think?